Image credit: KenGen Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (KenGen) has paid the National Government Ksh 1.1 billion ($10.5 million) in dividends for the financial year ended June 2019.
The National Treasury & Planning Cabinet Secretary, Ukur Yatani, received the cheque from KenGen board chairman, General Samson Mwathethe. KenGen’s Managing Director & CEO, Rebecca Miano was also present at the ceremony.
The Cabinet Secretary lauded KenGen’s positive financial performance adding that government is proud to be associated with the company. The government owns a 70% stake at KenGen while 30% is owned by private shareholders.
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Yatani noted that as the country’s leading energy producer, KenGen was a major player in the government’s efforts towards the country’s growth and development. “Energy is critical for the country’s growth and development. We take cognizance of the important role played by KenGen in growing the economy,” he said.
During the event, Mwathethe said: “We are indeed privileged and honoured to pay the government Ksh 1,153,856,022 in dividend at a time when businesses are facing enormous challenges occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic.”
He expressed gratitude to the government for consistent support over the years, saying it had contributed to KenGen’s growth and positive performance.
For the year ended June 2020, KenGen announced a Ksh 13.9 billion ($128 million) profit before tax, translating into 8.3% growth in profit from the previous financial year. For the year ended June 2020, KenGen announced a Ksh 13.9 billion profit before tax, translating into 8.3% growth in profit from the previous financial year. #KenGenFY2020 pic.twitter.com/daCuMBN6Kp — KenGenKenya (@KenGenKenya) February 9, 2021 The board has recommended a first and final dividend for the year of Ksh 0.30 per ordinary share of Ksh 2.50, which will be paid to shareholders once ratified in the next annual general meeting (AGM), Mwathethe said.
Speaking at the event, Miano said KenGen’s diversification strategy was bearing fruit as the organisation had been able to incorporate new business lines in its revenue streams including consultancy services.
The company is currently offering geothermal drilling services and undertaking geoscientific studies in Kenya and Ethiopia.
She also expressed optimism in the company’s ability to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic which led to widespread socio-economic challenges.
